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A Few Tricks for A Healthier Halloween

This holiday of indulgence, while fun, can also be a frustrating time for parents who want to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for their children and don’t want to confuse them by sending mixed messages.

Here are a few tips to try if you’re looking for a healthier Halloween:

Eat first - Before heading out to collect all that sweet stuff make sure you and your children fill up with a healthy meal first. Your kids will be less tempted to snack while walking or overindulging later if they have a full tummy.

Bag it - Leave the pillowcase at home and choose the right sized collection bag for your child. Encourage your child to only take one piece of candy from each house.

Keep moving - Getting some exercise this Halloween can be a fun family physical activity. Wear comfortable walking shoes while trick-or-treating.

Get rid of it - Pick out enough candy to make the outing worthwhile and throw the rest away. Whenever your child asks for a piece of candy make sure to pair it with a healthy snack like an apple, a banana or some healthy nuts.

Healthier Treat Alternatives

If you’d rather avoid the candy entirely, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests these healthier options: